A gynecological disease that can cause pain and heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis is one of the leading causes of infertility among women. Some women may be unaware that they have this condition, while others may manage painful symptoms during each menstrual cycle. For some women, following a healthy diet and including foods that aid in digestion and facilitate elimination, such as fiber, may help.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the endometrium, the inside lining of the uterus, grows in other areas of the abdomen and pelvic cavity. Endometrial lining may appear outside of the uterus on the bladder, ovaries or even the intestines. This lining, like the tissue lining the uterus, builds up with hormone changes and then is shed in the form of blood during menstruation. However, this tissue does not necessarily leave the body as menstrual blood flow does, which can irritate internal tissues, causing pain during menstrual periods. Additionally, some women may have intestinal pain or discomfort while having a bowel movement.
Constipation
Among other symptoms, women with endometriosis may suffer from gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and constipation. With constipation, having a bowel movement may be difficult and painful, and women with endometriosis may already be suffering from pelvic or abdominal pain associated with the condition. Constipation can be remedied by making lifestyle changes such as drinking more water and exercising regularly, but dietary changes such as increasing fiber intake may also help.
Fiber
Constipation can be caused by inadequate amounts of fiber in the diet, a component of many types of plant-based foods that is not digested in the intestinal tract. Fiber instead passes through the gastrointestinal tract and provides bulk to stool. Too little fiber in the diet can cause stools to become hard, dry and difficult to pass, possibly exacerbating some symptoms of endometriosis. A normal daily intake of fiber that can help reduce constipation is 25 to 30 grams, according to Continuum Health Partners. You can get fiber through foods such as beans, peas, berries, broccoli, apples, plums, spinach, prunes, cherries, bananas and whole-grain cereals.
Considerations
If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis, talk with your doctor about the types of foods with fiber that may be helpful for your condition. Your doctor can tell you how much fiber you need each day and which foods will provide the most fiber to reduce constipation. Consult with a doctor if you find that constipation is worsening your symptoms of endometriosis, if you develop bleeding from your rectum when having a bowel movement or if you have bloody stools.
References
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: Endometriosis: Here’s What We Do Know
- Continuum Health Partners Inc.; Bowel Function and Dietary Fiber; Warren Enker, M.D., FACS
- American Pregnancy Association: Endometriosis
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC): Constipation
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